When performing any notarization, the notary public will question the signer to determine that he or she is willing and competent to execute the document.

■ You should provide impartial witness for the notarization.

■ If we are asked to go to a hospital or nursing home to provide services, we will check with the patient’s nurse or doctor prior to notarization.

■ The notary public will talk to the person alone. Ask questions unrelated to the notarization. Ask for his name, home address, and telephone number. We could also engage the person in a conversation about his family, his occupation, a television program, a recent news event, etc.

■ The notary public will ask the signer to tell her or him about the document to be notarized. What kind of document do you need to sign? Have you read the document completely? Do you understand the document? Do you need someone to explain the contents of the document to you? Has anyone pressured you to sign this document?

If the notary public feels the person is mentally competent at the time, they will proceed. If in doubt, the notary must refuse notarization.